Cause and effect analysis: "Power tool" for total quality

The cause and effect diagram is a power tool of a total quality process (TQM) because it supports actions and principles vital to the successful implementation of total quality. The cause and effect diagram supports total quality in the following ways: it fosters efficient total involvement of associates; it prevents problems from recurring; it creates continuous improvement; it is a fundamental activity in problem solving and corrective action; it reinforces quality systems outlined in ISO 9000; it can be used effectively in strategic business planning; and its use promotes customer satisfaction when used in the preceding ways. A 10 step cause and effect procedure is presented, and the seven ways cause and effect diagrams are "power tools" for total quality are discussed.